(DailyDig.com) – Millions of Americans count on their tax refunds every year as part of their income. The last thing anyone wants is to wait longer than expected. Tax returns can amount to thousands and thousands of dollars, and delays can cause undue stress and even financial strain.
How long, then, should the typical taxpayer wait before worrying about their return? That depends. A number of issues can lead to later payments, and the best way to prevent them is to avoid the pitfalls that can cause lags to occur. Simple mistakes on tax returns can cause delays of weeks and even months. Others may result in written correspondence from the IRS. To expedite the process, respond accordingly, immediately.
When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Worry if Your Tax Refund Is Delayed
In an ordinary year, most people receive their tax refunds within 21 days of filing electronically. But the past couple of years has been anything but ordinary…https://t.co/90lyd2q0pB#gccig#investment pic.twitter.com/oGd6ZrZPVt— Global Leasing Alliance (@global_leasing) March 18, 2022
Choosing the fastest method to file is the most critical way to avoid delays. People filing paper returns can expect to wait much longer than those filing electronically. Typically, electronic filers with no errors or red flags will see their refunds within 21 days as long as they choose direct deposit. Paper checks can take as long as 2 months.
If too much time passes and there’s fear that a return is lost, the best course of action is to contact the IRS directly. Their website offers numbers to call as well as other tools taxpayers can use to troubleshoot the problem.
Return delays can be frustrating, but there are ways to take charge and stay informed. Filers can check the status of their returns and eliminate any doubt at Where’s My Refund, the Internal Revenue Service’s online tool.
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